19 Years on watch: Marine Rescue Port Stephens stalwart takes time out after 8,600 volunteer hours
by Marine Rescue NSW 7 Aug 23:50 BST
Peter Bliss with his fellow volunteers at Marine Rescue Port Stephens © Marine Rescue NSW
After 19 years of unwavering overnight duty, Marine Rescue Port Stephens is farewelling long-serving volunteer Peter Bliss — the quiet force behind more than 8,600 hours on watch and 1,323 shifts, most of them completed when the rest of the country was asleep.
A dedicated night operator, Bliss carved out a unique and essential role at the unit — often logging eight to ten full night shifts each month. Whether it was a routine passage or a midnight MAYDAY, his experienced voice in the radio room provided reassurance to volunteer crews and boaters.
When Bliss moved to Port Stephens in 2005 he thought he would be filling a different role with Marine Rescue NSW.
"I was a Coxswain and wanted to go on the boats, but with work and family, one thing lead to another and I ended up in the radio room and loved it," he said.
His service was recently recognised with a Unit Commander's Citation, presented in honour of his extraordinary contribution to safety on the water over nearly two decades.
"Peter's dedication is the kind that doesn't seek recognition, but deserves it more than most," said Unit Commander Ben van der Wijngaart.
"He has been the quiet professional on the night shift — consistent, and utterly dependable.
"His contribution to our operations and culture is deeply appreciated, and we thank him sincerely for his outstanding service," he said.
Bliss is now stepping back following a recent injury and preparing for a move to Maitland to be closer to family.
"While we hope he enjoys some well-earned rest, we'll certainly notice the absence of his name on the shift calendar — and the steady voice on the airwaves after dark," Unit Commander van der Wijngaart said.
Bliss summed up the unique perks of the night shift at Marine Rescue Port Stephens with his usual wit.
"The radio room at 2am can be a serious place — but at least no one's around to judge how many biscuits you've eaten," he joked.
"It's been a great experience, this unit is one big family, and I'll miss them," he said.
Bliss has left the door open to resume volunteering with unit in the future.
"They are such a great group of people at Marine Rescue Port Stephens, I may return in some capacity but first let's get the move done and settle into our new life," he said.
Unit Commander van der Wijngaart said he would welcome him back with open arms and his legacy remains strong.
"Inspired by Peter's example, several newer members have recently volunteered to take on night shifts — a testament to the culture of quiet professionalism he helped foster," he said.
The Marine Rescue Port Stephens radio base at Nelson Head operates 24/7 responding to boaters requiring assistance.
The unit is recruiting radio operators to be the voice of safety on the region's waters.
"People need no prior experience to volunteer with Marine Rescue Port Stephens. We provide full free training and teach new members everything they need to know to help save lives on the water."
"The unit is hosting a volunteer information evening on Monday 25th August, interested persons will find more details on the Marine Rescue Port Stephens Facebook page," Unit Commander van der Wijngaart said.
Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.